India: Before and AfterImperialism

Before Imperialism Hindu Influence

Caste system-everyone has a role to play in society

Cyclical pattern of life, death, and rebirth (Major aspect of Hindu religion)

Polytheistic

Hindu Caste System India united by Hindu social orderVillages are separated into

“neighborhoods” by casteHigh caste lives near center of town,

close to templeUntouchables lived on outskirts of town,

considered dirty to touch.

Indian Life Loyal to family first,

then caste Marriages arranged on

basis of what is best for the family

Vegetarians- Food is a source of

spiritual purity Sit cross-legged on floor Only eat with right hand,

left hand is impure

British Influence in India Because of the Industrial Revolution, sea

routes replace overland routes 1600- East India Company (Britain) is

formed, which built trading posts and forts in India

French East India Company does the same, and the French challenge the British for control

1757-Battle of Plassey- East India Co. defeats the French East India Co. by using British and Indian soldiers

Benefits of British Rule Education reforms-

new universities and schools

Irrigation projects Reformed police and

judicial system Encouraged cotton

industry Built railroads,

canals, and roads across the country

Harmful Effects of British Rule Indians begin to

show unrest British discriminate

against the natives Changed ancient

Indian ways Grow cotton, not

wheat Led to the starvation

and death of millions of Indians.

The Sepoy Rebellion-May 1857 Sepoy- Indian soldier in the British Army

British attempt to impose European and Christian customs

Rumor begins that British bullets are greased with the fat of cows and pigs

Hindus see cow as sacred, and Muslims do not touch pork. Both religious groups are violated.

Sepoys revolt for 1 year Many British are killed, and kill thousands of Indians in

return 1858-Parliament removes East India Company, and

send in viceroy to rule for monarch

Results of Sepoy Rebellion General Unhappiness

with British rule Indians outraged by

food shortages and other problems

Indians want self-rule 1885-Indian National

Congress lobbied for democracy and equality